Motivational Mondays: Conversations with Leaders

In this episode of Motivational Mondays, we interview Dr. Darrell Martin, a renowned figure in maternal healthcare. With over 40 years of experience, Dr. Martin co-founded Southern Crescent Women’s Healthcare, dedicating his career to the well-being of women. His specialties include obstetrics, gynecology, and gynecological surgery, and his impact on healthcare has been immense. Dr. Martin’s journey into medicine stems from a deep-rooted passion for helping women navigate their health needs across all stages of life.One of the most remarkable aspects of Dr. Martin's practice is how he views his medical career as more than just a job. He sees it as a ministry—an opportunity to nurture not just the physical health of his patients but their emotional and spiritual well-being as well. This holistic approach differentiates his practice from others, as he takes the time to understand the individual needs of each woman, ensuring they receive compassionate, comprehensive care.During the interview, Dr. Martin reflects on how maternal healthcare has evolved over the decades. He highlights advances in medical technology and surgical techniques that have transformed care for women. However, he also discusses ongoing challenges, including disparities in healthcare access for underserved communities. Dr. Martin emphasizes the importance of addressing these inequalities to ensure that every woman, regardless of background, receives the quality care they deserve.This week, you’ll learn more about Dr. Martin’s Advocacy for understanding the Midwife profession, his passion for serving marginalized communities, one of his most memorable career moments.  LEARN MORE:> > Check out Dr. Martin's website and his new book, In Good Hands (https://www.darrellmartinbooks.com)NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:> > Listen to the bonus episode to learn the best advice Dr. Martin’s ever been given (https://thens.ls/4f95bb6)Mentioned in this episode:NSLS members! 📢 Explore exclusive mental health support with 50% off your first month with BetterHelp: https://thens.ls/BetterBetterHelpGet 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS Shop

On this week's episode of Motivational Mondays, we are joined by Marsha Perry — a military veteran whose personal story of facing adversity is a testament to strength and adaptability. From her military career to a breast cancer diagnosis, Marsha’s journey highlights how unexpected challenges can be met with grace, determination, and the support of loved ones.Marsha’s path began with military service, where she became a nationally registered EMT. This medical background has been crucial in her current role in the benefits field, allowing her to leverage her understanding of medical terminology and systems. A routine mammogram revealed Marsha had DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma In Situ), despite having no symptoms. After an initial shock, she quickly turned to evaluating her treatment options, opting for a lumpectomy followed by radiation and medication to address her estrogen-positive cancer. Family, friends, and doctors formed a vital support network for Marsha. Despite her natural tendency toward privacy, she learned to accept help and leaned on her loved ones, especially her son, daughter, and close friends, to navigate surgery and recovery.This week, you’ll learn how Marsha dealt with the unexpected diagnosis of cancer, the balance of managing your feelings and those of loved ones during adversity and why Marsha decided to share her personal story with the public.LEARN MORE:> > Discover how you can support Breast Cancer Awareness Month (https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-awareness-month)NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:> > Listen to the bonus episode to learn what Marsha means when she says, “The cure is in the last pill" (https://thens.ls/3BOlyv3)Mentioned in this episode:NSLS members! 📢 Explore exclusive mental health support with 50% off your first month with BetterHelp: https://thens.ls/BetterBetterHelpGet 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS Shop

In this Motivational Mondays episode, we dive into the art of non-obvious thinking with Rohit Bhargava, best-selling author and marketing expert. Having spent years in the creative industry, Rohit noticed how often "creative" ideas fell flat, leading him to champion the importance of embracing the non-obvious. Rohit emphasizes how creativity often involves embracing both small and big risks. He shares how the concept of "danger" can push you out of complacency, whether it's as simple as navigating without GPS or tackling a daring new challenge. By taking these risks, even minor ones, you awaken your creative side and break free from mindless routines. The small discomfort of making a left turn Siri didn't suggest can often lead to personal growth and more confident decision-making.In this digital age, AI looms large in conversations about creativity. Rohit and Ben explored using AI as a "creative partner" when writing their book. Instead of allowing AI to write for them, they used it as a critical editor, leveraging its capabilities to point out weaknesses in their writing. This method enhanced their work without losing their distinct voice.This week, you’ll learn why we should embrace danger as a part of our personal development, the power of AI to help us set parameters, and the importance of understanding your own personal brand.LEARN MORE:> > Check out Rohit’s website and his new book, Non-Obvious Thinking (https://rohitbhargava.com)NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:> > Listen to the bonus episode to learn Rohit’s advice to anyone who feels stuck in the same place in life (https://thens.ls/4gXETdj)Mentioned in this episode:NSLS members! 📢 Explore exclusive mental health support with 50% off your first month with BetterHelp: https://thens.ls/BetterBetterHelpGet 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS Shop

On this week's Motivational Mondays, we take the opportunity to honor Hispanic Heritage Month. We invite you to revisit the impactful stories and contributions of six remarkable Hispanic leaders who have appeared on the podcast. We’re thrilled and honored to feature Stephanie Shojaee, Jose R. Costa, Shadille Estepan, Hugh Jones, Angel Martinez and Peter Orozco, to share their unique perspectives in their fields. Each guest brings a unique perspective and illustrates how Hispanic culture enriches various sectors, including real estate, mental health, entrepreneurship, and the arts. This rewind episode serves as a reminder of the extraordinary impact these leaders have in their respective fields and the importance of embracing diverse cultural narratives in enriching the broader conversation about identity, resilience, and community.This week, you’ll learn how Stephanie Shojaee learned to embrace her heritage, all about Lady Gaga’s mission to end the youth mental health crisis, and the importance of standing up for each other on social issues.LEARN MORE:Stephanie Shojaee (https://www.nsls.org/blog/putting-in-the-work-for-success)Jose R. Costa (https://www.nsls.org/blog/unleash-your-leadership-edge)Shadille Estepan (https://www.nsls.org/blog/building-a-kinder-and-braver-world)Hugh Jones (https://www.nsls.org/blog/turn-your-ambitions-into-reality)Angel Martinez (https://www.nsls.org/blog/building-beauty-from-the-inside)Peter Orozco (https://www.nsls.org/blog/choosing-tenacity-over-adversity)NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:> > Listen to the bonus episode to learn how embracing your identity sets you apart from the pack (https://thens.ls/3zPA6tN)Mentioned in this episode:NSLS members! 📢 Explore exclusive mental health support with 50% off your first month with BetterHelp: https://thens.ls/BetterBetterHelpGet 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS Shop

What does it take to lead successfully in today’s complex world? Willie Pietersen, former CEO of multi-billion-dollar companies and a professor at Columbia University’s Graduate School of Business, has spent his life answering this question. In this episode of Motivational Mondays, Pietersen delves into the essence of leadership, sharing profound insights from his upcoming book, Leadership: The Inside Story. Listeners will leave with practical strategies for personal leadership, strategic direction, and inspiring others.Pietersen's approach to leadership starts from within. Drawing inspiration from historical figures like Marcus Aurelius, he explains that leadership is not just about wielding power. It’s about self-awareness, guiding principles, and cultivating character. Pietersen’s three-domain framework highlights the importance of personal leadership, which begins with a deep understanding of oneself and the values that inspire others.Effective leadership requires clear strategic thinking, Pietersen notes. The ability to direct an organization’s future by setting well-defined priorities is a critical component of leadership. With years of experience advising corporations like American Express and ExxonMobil, Pietersen This week, you’ll learn how to establish your set of operating principles, the benefits of stepping outside of your comfort zone and how exclusion ultimately diminishes all of us.LEARN MORE:Check out Willie's website and new book (https://williepietersen.com)NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:> > Listen to the bonus episode to learn the best piece of advice Willie has ever received (https://thens.ls/3zCvabF)Mentioned in this episode:NSLS members! 📢 Explore exclusive mental health support with 50% off your first month with BetterHelp: https://thens.ls/BetterBetterHelpGet 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS Shop

In today's competitive job market, internships have become an essential part of launching a successful career. Fischer emphasizes the importance of internships as a way to gain real-world experience, build professional networks, and develop marketable skills. She provides practical advice on how interns can differentiate themselves by making a lasting impact during their short-term roles. Through insightful examples and easy-to-follow steps, Fischer encourages readers to view internships as more than just résumé-builders, but as a chance to explore and hone their career paths.Make Your Internship Count dives deep into key strategies for success. Fischer outlines how to approach every aspect of the internship, from preparing ahead of time to setting specific goals, building relationships, and actively seeking feedback. The book also stresses the importance of personal branding and how interns can create a positive, lasting impression with their supervisors and colleagues. Fischer highlights the value of effective communication and how networking during an internship can lead to future job opportunities.For those looking to turn their internship experiences into full-time career opportunities, Make Your Internship Count Is an essential guide. Marti Fischer's actionable insights and real-world advice empower readers to take charge of their professional journeys. Whether you are a student just starting out or someone looking to advance in your field, this book offers the tools and confidence to make the most of every opportunity. Fischer’s guidance will inspire readers to be proactive and strategic, ensuring their internships leave a lasting impact.This week, you’ll learn how to navigate the world of work, how to use what you know to educate others and the benefits of spreadsheet networking.LEARN MORE:Check out Marti's new book, Make Your Internship Count(https://www.martifischergroup.com/books)NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:> > Listen to the bonus episode to learn the best piece of advice Marti’s ever been given (https://thens.ls/3ZyNjBS)Mentioned in this episode:NSLS members! 📢 Explore exclusive mental health support with 50% off your first month with BetterHelp: https://thens.ls/BetterBetterHelpGet 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS Shop

In this episode we sit down with Bernie Borges, an experienced podcaster and entrepreneur with a passion for helping people discover fulfillment in their midlife years. After an impressive career in B2B sales and marketing, Bernie recognized that despite his professional success, something was missing. This revelation led him to launch the Midlife Fulfilled Podcast in 2022, where he tackles the often-overlooked topic of finding satisfaction and purpose during midlife.In this episode of Motivational Mondays we welcomed Bernie Borges, host of the Midlife Fulfilled Podcast. After a long career in B2B sales and marketing, Bernie realized that professional success alone wasn't enough for a fulfilling life. In 2022, he launched his podcast to help others explore the nuances of satisfaction during midlife.Bernie shares insights into how midlife isn’t about crisis, but rather an opportunity to reinvent oneself. He explores the importance of finding purpose, nurturing relationships, and staying open to new possibilities. His podcast aims to shift the narrative around midlife, showcasing it as a time of growth and discovery.This week, you’ll learn what is meant by the term “Midlife,” what it means to be “happy” and the power of self-awareness.LEARN MORE:>> Check out Bernie's website and podcast (https://midlifefulfilled.com)NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:>> Listen to the bonus episode to learn what's the best piece of advice Bernie’s ever been given (https://thens.ls/47uzRRd)Mentioned in this episode:Get 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS ShopNSLS members! 📢 Explore exclusive mental health support with 50% off your first month with BetterHelp: https://thens.ls/BetterBetterHelp

Alexa Curtis is a former Disney Radio host and serial entrepreneur with a fearless approach to life and business. Curtis, who started a fashion blog at just 12 years old, shares how she built her personal brand and transitioned into entrepreneurship. With back-to-school season in full swing, her message is timely for young professionals, particularly Gen Z, looking to carve out their own paths. Curtis emphasizes the importance of resilience, particularly when it comes to handling rejection, and offers strategies to navigate the professional world.One of Curtis' boldest moves is following up with people who have initially rejected her, turning potential setbacks into learning opportunities. In the interview, she shares her viral TikTok story, where she showcases her follow-up process, encouraging others to do the same. Curtis reminds listeners that rejection is often a matter of timing or circumstance, and not a reflection of personal failure. Her candid approach to feedback and accountability has helped her continuously improve and grow in her career.For listeners, this episode provides essential advice on overcoming fear, embracing vulnerability, and being proactive in professional pursuits. Curtis' journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and strategic risk-taking, making this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to build their brand and take their career to the next level.This week, you’ll learn why Alexa decided to call people who rejected her to get their feedback, the importance of adapting your strategy to trends and proven data, and why being internet savvy is a must in the age of digital communication.LEARN MORE:>> Follow her on ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠Facebook⁠, Twitter, and ⁠LinkedIn (https://instagram.com/alexa_curtis), (https://www.facebook.com/lifeunfilteredwithalexa), (https://twitter.com/Alexa_Curtis), and (https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexacurtis)>> Check out her ⁠website (https://www.lifeunfilteredwithalexa.com)NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:>> Listen to the bonus episode to learn the best piece of advice Alexa has ever received and how it still applies to her endeavors today (https://thens.ls/3z95Rh1)Mentioned in this episode:Get 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS ShopNSLS members! 📢 Explore exclusive mental health support with 50% off your first month with BetterHelp: https://thens.ls/BetterBetterHelp

Andrea Lefkovits journey into the skincare industry was not a typical one. It all began during the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when many people found themselves in isolation and reevaluating their careers. For Andrea, this period of reflection and innovation led her to take on a completely new challenge.Her connection to skincare was personal and familial. Andrea’s father-in-law, a respected dermatologist in Manhattan, had developed a remarkable cream called Virginskin, initially designed for post-laser treatment. After his passing, Andrea realized that this beloved product had a lasting impact on his patients. Determined to keep his legacy alive, she took it upon herself to learn the ins and outs of the skincare industry, transforming from educator to student in a new, complex field.Launching a skincare brand was no easy feat for Andrea. Despite her background in education, she found herself in uncharted territory, needing to learn about product formulation, social media, public relations, and the intricacies of the beauty industry. There were moments of doubt and caution, but Andrea approached these challenges with the same methodical and thoughtful mindset that had guided her throughout her career in education.This week, you’ll learn how Andrea went from educator to student as an entrepreneur, when Andrea realized her product can help cancer patients post surgery and the importance of making business decisions based on good intentions.LEARN MORE:>> Follow her on ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠Facebook⁠, and ⁠TikTok (https://www.instagram.com/virginskinbeauty),(https://www.facebook.com/virginskinbeauty), and (https://www.tiktok.com/@virginskinbeauty)>> Check out her ⁠website (https://virginskinbeauty.com)NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:>> Listen to the bonus episode to learn Andrea’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and the importance of being receptive to feedback. (https://thens.ls/3ZbpuQa)Mentioned in this episode:NSLS members! 📢 Explore exclusive mental health support with 50% off your first month with BetterHelp: https://thens.ls/BetterBetterHelpGet 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS Shop

Dr. Woo’s personal journey in emotional intelligence began at a young age. As an immigrant to the United States who didn’t know English or even the alphabet, she quickly learned the importance of non-verbal communication and social cues. The challenges of adapting to a new culture, living without her parents for five years, and adjusting to an entirely new environment shaped her understanding of EI. It wasn’t until she entered the corporate world as a management consultant at Deloitte that she fully recognized the significance of emotional intelligence in leadership and teamwork.In leadership development, Dr. Woo stresses the value of recognizing cognitive biases and assumptions. Leaders often fall into the trap of expecting others to think and act as they would, which can create disconnects within teams. To overcome this, leaders need to be self-aware, challenge their assumptions, and remain flexible in how they approach different perspectives.Asking questions to clarify intentions and understanding the reasons behind others’ actions are key strategies for promoting empathy and inclusiveness in the workplace. Dr. Woo’s approach emphasizes creating a culture where everyone works cohesively, ensuring that emotional intelligence becomes a collective effort rather than an individual endeavor.In a world where social media often highlights only the success stories, Dr. Woo advocates for sharing personal mistakes and failures as well. She believes that acknowledging the challenges along the path to success helps others feel less isolated in their own struggles. Sharing these experiences not only humanizes the journey but also creates an environment where learning from failures is valued.This week, you’ll learn how to define ‘Emotional Intelligence’ (EI), why EI is so important in a highly digital world and how to communicate better through leadership development.LEARN MORE:>> Follow her on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube (https://www.instagram.com/mindbrainparenting), (https://www.facebook.com/MindBrainParenting), (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennyjcwoo), (https://x.com/mindbrainparent), and (https://www.youtube.com/@mindbrainemotion)>> Check out her card deck and her online emotional intelligence course (https://mindbrainemotion.com)NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:>> Listen to the bonus episode to learn where emotional intelligence is headed in today’s digital world and simple exercises to build up your EI. (https://thens.ls/46XgGz8)Mentioned in this episode:NSLS members! 📢 Explore exclusive mental health support with 50% off your first month with BetterHelp: https://thens.ls/BetterBetterHelpGet 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS Shop